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Leukaemia fundraiser in Palmyra this weekend

ZOE Watt’s world was turned upside down when she found out her 16-year-old brother Rhys had cancer.

Ms Watt said it was scary knowing there was something seriously wrong with her younger brother but not knowing what it was, and when the diagnosis came back as stage four Nodular Lymphocyte-Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma her family’s world was rocked.

Following the initial shock of the diagnosis, and with the help and support of family, friends and work colleagues, Ms Watt and her family decided to do something to help Rhys and others in his situation, organising a few friends to join them in a World’s Greatest Shave fundraiser.

What started as a small event turned into more than 100 people taking part and donating almost $2900 for the Leukaemia Foundation.

The effort touched her colleagues at First Steps Early Leaning Child Care in Hilton, so much so they rallied together to organise a community fundraising event at Palmyra Primary School on Sunday.

The family-friendly event, held as part of the regular Palmyra Western Farmers Markets, will include a sausage sizzle, bouncy castle and plenty of activities for the children.

Ms Watt said she was astounded at how many work colleagues and parents were willing to put in time or donate items to help her raise as much as possible for the Leukaemia Foundation.

“The original goal was set at $25,000 although we are now hoping to raise an extra $5000 to reach the new goal of $30,000,” she said.

“It is important for the community to get behind us to raise awareness and contribute as much as possible to further the research in this area so fewer families do not have to experience this emotional rollercoaster.

“By further supporting this cause, it helps with the supportive resources needed for the diagnosis.”

Rhys said he was overwhelmed by the efforts.

“I think that my sister Zoe, brother Daniel and my mum Tania have done an amazing job organising all of these events and getting so much support from friends, family and the local community,” he said.

“It has been very overwhelming but I am grateful for everything everyone has done for me, my family and the Leukaemia Foundation.”

The fundraising event will be held at the Palmyra Western Farmers Market at the Palmyra Primary School on April 10 from 8am to 12pm.